What federal laws might supersede the application of Virginia law in the Bumble Roofing agreement?

According to Bumble Roofing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement acknowledges that both state and federal laws may take precedence over the agreement's terms regarding termination or expiration. Specifically, section 17.20 of the agreement states that if any terms related to termination or expiration are inconsistent with applicable state or federal law, then the respective state or federal law will govern the franchisee's rights.

This clause is included to ensure that Bumble Roofing franchisees are protected by any consumer protection laws or franchise-specific regulations that exist at either the state or federal level. Franchise laws vary considerably by state, and federal laws, such as those enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), are designed to protect franchisees from unfair practices. This provision ensures that franchisees benefit from these protections, even if the franchise agreement attempts to limit them.

For a prospective Bumble Roofing franchisee, this means that certain provisions in the franchise agreement may not be fully enforceable if they conflict with state or federal laws. It is advisable for franchisees to consult with an attorney to understand their rights under both the franchise agreement and any applicable state and federal laws, particularly concerning termination and renewal.